Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate was withdrawn at half time of France‘s 2-0 defeat against Croatia in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals.
The Reds had already been handed one injury concern over the international break after Ryan Gravenberch withdrew from the Netherlands squad prior to their 2-2 draw with Spain.
Gravenberch was forced to pull out of Ronald Koeman‘s squad with an injury he sustained in Sunday’s EFL Cup final defeat to Newcastle United.
The Dutchman has now returned to Liverpool to undergo his rehabilitation, and there appears to be a possibility that he could be joined by Konate.
The centre-back was withdrawn at the interval of France’s 2-0 defeat to Croatia in what proved to be a forgettable night in Split.
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Konate picks up knock on international duty
Konate, who partnered Arsenal’s William Saliba in central defence, gave away a penalty in the opening stages of the first leg after being penalised for a handball.
While Andrej Kramaric missed the spot-kick, Konate was still part of a backline that conceded two goals before the half-time interval.
Konate was replaced by Bayern Munich’s Dayot Upamecano, with France confirming that his withdrawal was due to an injury issue rather than a technical decision.
A post on France’s official X account read: “Dayot Upamecano replaces Ibrahima Konate, who picked up a knock in the first half.”
© Imago
When do France, Liverpool play next?
Liverpool will hope Konate’s withdrawal was a precautionary measure rather than a result of any serious injury problem.
Les Bleus will assess the defender’s physical status ahead of Sunday’s second leg against Croatia at the Stade de France.
While it remains to be seen whether Konate will be ready for the return fixture, Liverpool’s main concern will be to have their key central defender available for the Premier League run-in.
Arne Slot’s side will return to action on April 2 when they face local rivals Everton in the Merseyside Derby at Anfield.
Liverpool are closing in on the Premier League title, having established a 12-point lead at the top with nine games left to play.
